Real-Time Interpretation Monitoring

What Real-Time Monitoring Is

Real-time monitoring is distinct from serving as the court’s interpreter. Instead, the interpreter attends the proceeding as a consultant to counsel, listening to the Russian and the English interpretation and tracking significant discrepancies as they occur.

The goal is to give counsel concrete, time-stamped notes that can be used to formulate on-the-spot objections (where appropriate) and to inform post-hearing strategy, including potential motions or requests to clarify the record.

Important:

This role is retained by counsel, not by the court. It must be compatible with local court rules and any interpreter program guidelines. Counsel remains responsible for when and how to raise concerns with the court.

Examples of Use Cases

High-stakes merits hearings where accuracy is critical
Cases with a history of client complaints about prior interpretation
Proceedings in jurisdictions where interpreter oversight is limited
Remote hearings where audio quality or lag may affect accuracy

Output Counsel Receives

Contemporaneous notes of apparent misinterpretations or omissions
Rough time references or exhibit/page markers for each issue
Post-hearing summary highlighting any potentially material discrepancies
Optional recommendation on whether a full post-hearing audit is warranted

How a Monitored Hearing Works

Pre-Hearing Briefing with Counsel

Counsel outlines case posture, primary issues, and specific concerns related to interpretation. Ground rules are set for how and when communication will occur during the proceeding.

On-Site or Remote Monitoring

The interpreter attends the hearing (in person or remotely) and listens to both the original Russian and the interpreted English, noting discrepancies without interrupting the flow of the proceeding.

Discrepancy Notes for Counsel

Where feasible and agreed in advance, key issues may be flagged to counsel during breaks. A fuller set of notes is delivered after the hearing.

Post-Hearing Debrief

Counsel receives a concise summary highlighting potential due process concerns and whether a comprehensive transcript–audio audit is recommended.

Counsel’s Role & Considerations

Confirm that consultant attendance is permitted by the court’s rules and logistics.
Clarify whether and how you wish to be alerted to serious issues during breaks.
Advise whether minor deviations should be tracked, or only potentially material errors.
Consider in advance how any concerns will be raised with the court, if at all.

Ethical Boundaries:

During monitoring, the interpreter does not address the court, interpret for the record, or intervene on their own initiative. All decisions about the use of the information provided remain with counsel.